Many of us have jobs that require up to eight hours a day in front of a screen. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) affects 64%-90% of all office workers. It can cause headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and shoulder or neck pain. Hunching over a keyboard takes a toll on our bodies, and our eyes.

Computer Ergonomics Can Relieve Computer Eye Strain

Computer ergonomics is the science of designing a work environment that maximizes efficiency and reduces injury risk. Here are a few tips to reduce eye strain and other computer-associated issues:

Sit with your head and neck upright and aligned with your torso.
Always face your screen directly. Avoid having your back twisted or viewing your screen with your head turned.
If you wear glasses, position yourself so you comfortably view your entire screen without tilting your head.
Keep your mouse close to your keyboard so you aren’t constantly reaching for it.
Try to get your computer screen so the top of the screen is at or below eye level. This will reduce the strain on your neck.
Make sure your screen is the right distance from your face. It should be about an arms’ length away.
Use the 20-20-20 rule. Look away from your screen every 20 minutes, at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Give Your Eyes A Break

Try these tips to keep your eyes happier at work.

There are also a variety of lenses designed for computer use and also to reduce the blue light that is emitted by digital devices. Be sure to talk to a Vision Source optometrist about the nature of your job and he or she will be able to recommend lenses that are best suited for you and your individual needs.

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